Closed on Sunday

Chick Fil A - Cranberry TWP, PA - panoramio

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Kim Kardashian & Kanye West collage

Closed on Sunday is a song by American rapper Kanye West, from his ninth studio album, Jesus Is King (2019). The song features themes of family, faith, and devotion, reflecting West's religious transformation and his embrace of Christianity. The track stands out for its minimalistic production, incorporating a haunting choir and sparse instrumentation that complements West's introspective lyrics. It was released as the album's second single and has since sparked discussions on its lyrical content, particularly its references to Chick-fil-A, a fast-food restaurant known for its policy of closing on Sundays due to the Christian beliefs of its founder.

Background

Closed on Sunday was produced by Kanye West alongside a team of producers, including Budgie and Brian "AllDay" Miller. The song's creation was part of West's broader shift towards gospel music and Christian themes, which was evident throughout the Jesus Is King album. This transformation was also showcased in his Sunday Service performances, a series of gospel concerts held by West starting in January 2019.

Composition and Lyrics

The composition of Closed on Sunday is marked by its stark simplicity, featuring an acoustic guitar and a choir that provides a haunting backdrop to West's vocals. The lyrics emphasize the importance of family and faith, with West urging listeners to prioritize their loved ones and their spiritual life over material concerns. The chorus of the song, which mentions Chick-fil-A, serves as a metaphor for rest, reflection, and devotion, aligning with the Christian practice of observing the Sabbath.

Reception

Upon its release, Closed on Sunday received mixed reviews from music critics. Some praised the song for its earnestness and the sincerity of West's message, while others criticized it for its perceived heavy-handedness and the incongruity of the Chick-fil-A reference. Despite the mixed critical reception, the song was a commercial success, charting in multiple countries and sparking widespread conversation about its themes and West's artistic direction.

Music Video

The music video for Closed on Sunday was released shortly after the song and features West, his family, and a group of individuals in a rugged, outdoor setting, further emphasizing the themes of family and faith. The video was noted for its striking visuals and the symbolic representation of West's call for a return to traditional values and spirituality.

Impact and Legacy

Closed on Sunday has been analyzed for its cultural and religious implications, particularly in the context of West's public conversion to Christianity and his subsequent endeavors in gospel music. The song is seen as a reflection of West's personal journey and his desire to use his platform to express his faith and address societal issues. It has also been discussed in the context of the broader trend of popular music engaging with religious and spiritual themes.